Gender Matters for Green TVET: Graduation of Young Mothers and Vulnerable Youth at Don Bosco Muhazi

Joy, pride, and a renewed sense of purpose filled the air at Don Bosco Muhazi TVET School as young mothers and vulnerable youth gathered to celebrate the successful completion of a six-month Agriculture Short Course Program for the 4^th Cohort, supported by the transformative Gender Matters for Green TVET project.

The graduation ceremony, held on the school grounds, brought together students, teaching staff, all united by a shared belief in the power of second chances and skills-based empowerment. The event served as a landmark achievement for many young mothers and disadvantaged youth graduates, particularly those who have overcome immense personal and social challenges to pursue training in sustainable agriculture.

In his keynote address, AHOBANTEGEYE Theodore, the Director of Studies at Don Bosco Muhazi TVET School, congratulated the graduates and applauded their resilience and determination. He emphasized the crucial role that agriculture plays not only in food security but also in economic independence and dignity for young people.

“This program is not just about growing crops. It is about growing confidence, independence, and a sustainable future,” he stated. “For our young mothers and vulnerable youth, this training opens the door to a life of dignity and productivity. You are no longer passive recipients of aid, you are now skilled contributors to your families and communities.” He added.

Theodore also highlighted the school’s vision of integrating green practices into all vocational programs, noting that sustainable agriculture offers tremendous opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and climate resilience.

One of the most touching moments of the ceremony was a heartfelt speech from a young mother and program graduate, who shared her journey. Once forced to drop out of school due to early pregnancy and economic hardship, Aline described how the agriculture course gave her both practical skills and hope.

“Before this opportunity, I thought my dreams were over,” she shared. “But today, I stand here proud and confident. I have learned how to farm organically, manage a small business, and even train others. I am not only feeding my child; I am building our future.”

Her words moved the audience and served as a powerful testament to the life-changing potential of inclusive and gender-responsive vocational training.

The graduation also provided a moment to acknowledge the indispensable role played by Gender Matters for Green TVET, the lead donor and strategic partner behind this initiative. The organization supports Don Bosco Muhazi TVET School in promoting equitable access to green technical education, particularly targeting young women, single mothers, school dropouts, and other vulnerable youth.

Gender Matters for Green TVET continues to play a key role in advancing the green economy in Rwanda by ensuring that no youth is left behind, especially those who are often excluded from mainstream education and employment opportunities.

Since its kick-off in 2023 in Rwanda, the Gender Matters for Green TVET Project registers 83 alumni at Don Bosco Muhazi TVET School and ensures that every graduate is given a startup toolkit and is followed up in implementing his/her integration into the job market and/or business.

As the ceremony came to a close, the graduates received certificates and farming starter kits, symbolizing not only their achievement but also a new beginning. Many expressed interest in forming cooperatives and even launching small agri-businesses.

The graduation was more than a ceremonial event; it was a celebration of empowerment, resilience, and the transformative impact of accessible vocational training. Don Bosco Muhazi TVET School remains committed to expanding such programs and working alongside partners like Gender Matters for Green TVET to ensure that every young person, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive.

This was made possible with funding from the Austrian Development Cooperation and Jugend Eine Welt. This is part of the broader Gender Matters for Green TVET programme, a four-year initiative (2023-2026) implemented in five Don Bosco TVET Centres across Uganda and Rwanda.

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